/ About Abuse
Living a life free of abuse and fear is a fundamental human right. Abuse robs women of their self esteem, affects the development of their children and creates a cycle that can be carried on for generations.
Intimate partner violence (IPV) takes on many forms and is commonly referred to as domestic violence, spousal abuse or gender-based violence.
IPV can occur in all intimate relationships whether a couple is married, common-law, dating or cohabiting. It also occurs in parent child relationships, extended family-child relationships and sibling relationships.
Are you experiencing abuse?
Abuse takes many forms. Does any of this seem familiar?
Physical Abuse: Slapping, choking, or punching, with hands or objects used as weapons. Being threatened with a knife or gun.
Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Threats of physical harm or death. Threats of suicide. Humiliating, criticizing, and/or insulting comments. Jealous behavior.
Isolation: Limiting where a person goes/who they talk to. Monitoring social media/email.
Blame/Denial: Minimizing the abuse or refusing to admit that abuse is occurring. Blaming the vulnerable person for the abuse (i.e. “you make me have to act this way”).
Financial Abuse: Theft/control of money or valuables. Denial of the right to work.
Spiritual Abuse: Use of religious or spiritual beliefs to manipulate, dominate and control.
Sexual Abuse: Using threats, intimidation or physical force to coerce engagement in unwanted sexual acts. Controlling pregnancies/abortions.
Criminal Harassment/Stalking: Following or watching in a persistent, malicious and unwanted manner.